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Popular reasons for indulging included drinking to 'unwind' (40 per cent) and 'escapism' (17 per cent).

Meanwhile, one in five polled admitted they can’t have fun out on a night out if they don’t drink.

Andrew Meredith, medical director at
Benenden Hospital, said: ‘This survey highlights the dysfunctional relationship
many of us have with alcohol.

'The results can be seen in our town
centres every weekend, in A&E departments where alcohol related
conditions and injuries are a large part of the workload and the
increasing numbers of admissions with alcohol related liver disease.’

Lawrence Christensen, of Benenden Healthcare, added: ‘We wish to draw attention to these levels of alcohol consumption, which not only pose a medical risk but a lifestyle risk in terms of financial cost.

'With 726 hangovers and being £58,201 out-of-pocket, "enjoying a drink" regularly takes on a new dimension.’